Trauma survivors reunion

Several Central Florida residents who had life-threatening injuries were able to say thank you today to the people who saved their lives.

HCA Florida Osceola Hospital held a reunion for trauma patients and the doctors, nurses and other team members who cared for them. The hospital has treated more than 22,500 patients since its trauma unit opened nearly 10 years ago, but it is rare to see how patients are doing after they recover. Nydia Weldon and her daughter Kessica Kantala were in a nearly fatal car accident last year. Both suffered multiple broken bones and internal injuries. Nydia is especially grateful to the trauma team for saving her daughter, who spent three months in the hospital. Daughter Kessica celebrated a birthday today and she says the trauma team gave her the very best gift.

"These doctors are what they call miracle workers. Because how is it that you save a patient with a puncture in their heart? Everything is here, and they come, and they have this ability to save them, they don't give up. They work and they work and they work and they work until they get the job done. And they save a life." Said trauma patient survivor, Nydia. Her daughter Kessica added, "I'm 48 today, today, today I turned 48 because of because of the miracle that happened at HCA and I can't express how much I appreciate it."

Dr. Dustin Huynh, HCA Florida Osceola Hospital Trauma Medical Director said that HCA Florida Osceola hospital is ready for to serve this community. "We are equipped with the best of the best. We are ready. Our survival rate is 99%. If you have ever, ever happen to need help, we're ready." Said Dr. Huynh.

The celebration also recognized the area’s emergency responders for their lifesaving care before patients even get to the hospital. HCA Florida Osceola Hospital is the county’s only Level 2 Trauma Center and offers the highest level of heart and stroke care in the county.